Step 8: Make it Beatbox.

I am not a big fan of programming. I may like it but, I try to keep it down to a 555 timer like in this ible. However, when it comes to synths, well, I just NEED programming. One day, while exploring Synthesizers, I came across something known as chiptunes.

I decided to listen and found the music just totally awesome. And so I tried to make it with Arduino. Unfortunately, it didn't fit the Arduino code. Fortunately, Stimmer in the Arduino Forums had ported Linus Åkesson's Hardware Chiptune Project and made it to fit the Arduino.

UPDATE: THERE HAS BEEN AN UPDATE TO THE CODE. REPROGRAM THE ARDUINO WITH THE NEW CODE AND PUT AN LED ON PIN 12 AND PIN 10 (WITH RESISTORS) AND THEY WILL PLAY ALONG WITH THE "DRUMS"

You need a Linux OS like Ubuntu or similar. I am running OpenSuse 11.3 but it should be very similar. You will need to install libSDL next. Then Open a terminal and use the 'change directory' command (cd) to get to where you hid the file on your computer. Next go to the same place using the GUI of your OS and read the readme file.

I don't have the file with me but I can say you execute it with something like this (again check the readme file for a more accurate command): ./tracker test2.song It should open up as a tracker.

I don't know much aside from the fact you can make it play, idle or editable. Then use the app here. You will need gcc and java for it to run.

I instantly recognized the song the second it started in the video. I've been wanting to build one of those for years now. For all those who haven't heard of this before: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_uU4BzSQQmY

About This Instructable

Bio:If you want me to build something...I'm open to ideas. I like to hack with electronics, mix with chemicals and play with ideas. My motto? "If you want something to be done in this world, you must do i...read more »